Kehinde Fajobi
Commercial and social life in Enugu came to a halt as the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) enforced a two-day sit-at-home order.
The directive, reportedly aimed at raising the Biafran flag and pressing for the release of IPOB leader Nnamdi Kanu, who is in Department of State Services (DSS) custody, left the city paralysed.
A Vanguard correspondent, who toured parts of the city, noted that while a few people attempted to go out, transportation was scarce. No buses or commercial vehicles were available, leaving residents stranded.
Many voiced their frustration and confusion over the situation. Security forces were stationed at key junctions and roads in the city, but most markets, schools, and offices remained closed. Streets that would normally bustle with activity were largely empty, with only a few tricycles (Keke) and private cars seen on the roads.
Trader expresses worry
Obumneme Okolo, a trader at Ogbette Main Market, shared his frustration over the shutdown.
“I came out early in the morning hoping to open my shop, but everything was locked. There were no buses to take me to the market; I had to get a lift from a neighbour. When I finally got to the market, most traders stayed away, and the few who showed up didn’t dare open their shops,” he told Vanguard.
“This situation is unbearable. We can’t continue like this—if I don’t sell, how do I feed my family? We are losing money, and our customers are drifting away. The government must do something and work with leaders from the South-East to get Nnamdi Kanu released,” Okolo urged.
Teachers Remain Fearful Primary school teacher Mrs Veronica Odogwu also stayed home due to fears of violence, despite no official school closure.
“There’s so much tension where I live. People aren’t ready to risk their lives after IPOB’s warning,” she said.
“We heard reports that security personnel were shot in Anambra yesterday. With that kind of news, no school management should expect us to show up. Some parents even called me this morning, and I advised them to keep their kids home. I doubt any school would open today,” she added.
Residents are calling on the government to resolve the crisis, as businesses and education in the region remain at a standstill.